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Writer's pictureKarl Pratt

Foundation awards grant funding to support Parkinson's services in northwest Kansas


The Sheridan County Community Foundation granted $1,800.00 to the Parkinson’s Families of Northwest Kansas organization during the August grant cycle.


From their application:

Parkinson’s Families of Northwest Kansas, a non-profit 501(c)3, was established in November 2020. They cover 6,000 square miles within nine counties of Northwest Kansas and are the only organization within 250 miles whose sole mission is to improve the health and well-being of people affected by this crippling disease.


In a region known as a medical desert, these services benefit a drastically underserved population with no access to specialized Parkinson’s disease (PD) therapies or peer support. Parkinson’s Families is the only organization offering FREE specialized PD support for the entire region of northwest Kansas.


Their classes are inspired by individuals with Parkinson’s disease and Essential Tremors who have struggled with loneliness, isolation, and depression but know the importance of helping others.


They invite those with Parkinson’s and Essential Tremors, family members, caregivers, therapists, and anyone who could benefit from their direct services or give referrals. Their classes enable individuals to improve their fine and large motor skills, self-confidence, mood, speech, and communication deficits. This will enhance the quality of life, restore function, and may delay disease progression.


Attending their classes encourages individuals to get out of the house and out of their comfort zone, reducing feelings of depression, anxiety, apathy, and low motivation. Most class participants expressed feeling relaxed in our group sessions and were happy to live life. They tend to worry less about what others think and are more confident being out in public. Laughter is a regular occurrence during our group sessions!


After participating in class, many are relieved to know they no longer must fight this disease alone and have commented that they feel better mentally and physically. They also return home with a better understanding of the disease.


To learn more about the organization and its services, please visit their website at https://www.movingtolive.org/ or contact Director Elaine Ptacek at (785) 443-3439 or parkinsons@movingtolive.org.


SCCF encourages area organizations to submit applications for their projects and activities online at www.gnwkcf.org/hansen-grant for funding consideration. Applications deadlines are the last day of each month for consideration during the Board of Directors monthly meeting the following month.


Six categories are considered with making grants: 1) Education; 2) Health Care; 3) Community Social Services and Security; 4) Conservation and Environment; 5) Arts and Culture; and 6) Community Beautification.


To learn more and apply, visit www.growsheridancounty.org/grants.


Contact SCCF Executive Director Karl Pratt at director@growsheridancounty.org or 785-675-1240 with questions regarding the application process.


SCCF is an affiliate of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation based in Bird City. The foundation seeks to encourage, prudently manage, and distribute charitable contributions to improve the quality of life of Sheridan County residents, now and in the future. To learn more, contact Pratt at 785-675-1240, director@growsheridancounty.org, or visit www.growsheridancounty.org. Connect with SCCF at www.facebook.com/sheridanccf.

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